Yesterday’s 2-2 draw against Fulham was full of lessons for Arsenal, and one of those is that Fabio Vieira deserves a start over Kai Havertz.
Whilst Kai Havertz has suffered unfair criticism since arriving at the club, his performance yesterday did raise eyebrows.
Not necessarily because he was extremely poor, but because of how brilliant Fabio Vieira looked when replacing him.
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Vieira has had to be very patient for opportunities at Arsenal.
He understandably sat behind Martin Odegaard for much of last season in pursuit of a game at attacking midfield.
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His other preferable role, right wing, was also fulfilled by another immovable talent in Bukayo Saka.
However, now Arsenal have evolved their shape further this year it now seems that Fabio Vieira could be perfect for the role vacated by Granit Xhaka.
Last season it would have been too defensively irresponsible to make such a suggestion but Declan Rice has changed everything.
And although there’s credible arguments that Havertz needs an inverted fullback behind him to flourish, Vieira looks ready to thrive in any Arsenal eleven.
Vieira should replace Havertz for Arsenal against Manchester United
Kai Havertz being dropped for Fabio Vieira doesn’t need to be a big drama, either.
Much like Mikel Arteta having the power to drop Gabriel Magalhaes, he should have Arsenal fan’s full trust to decide his midfield with or without the German, too.
Everyone will have their opinions, but it’s the Spaniard’s that counts.
Kai Havertz could do well with a break from the side, it’s been a very intense few months since his arrival.
And with Fabio Vieira arguably the best player on the pitch yesterday his inclusion does seem a no brainer.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Mikel Arteta already has a specific plan in mind against Manchester United.
And Arsenal fans may just hope that it involves finally starting Fabio Vieira.
Kai Havertz hasn’t done a lot wrong, but he’ll be one of many to dip in and out of the Arsenal team this season.